221 

,y 1 



'J, ^ 



U. S. COMMISSION OF FISH AND FISHERIES, 

JOHN J. BRICE, Commissioner. 



THE 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 



-.■«■ 



BY 



JAN 121838 'J) 



^^CEIVSS^ 



r/ 



HUGH JM. SMITH, 

Chief of Division of Scientific Inquiry, U. S. Fish Commission. 



Extraotad from U, S. Fish Commission Bulletin for 1897. Article 3, Pages 85 to 111, Plats 3, and 1 text figurt, 

Sate of publication, January 6, 1898! 



WASHINGTON": 

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 
1898. 



U. S. COMMISSION OF FISH AND FISHERIES, 

JOHN J. BRICE, Commissioner. 



THE 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 



BY 



HUGH JM. SMITH, 
Chief of Division of Scientific Inquiry \ U. S. Fish Commission. 



Eitraoted from 0. S. Fish Commission Bulletin for 1897. Article 3, Pages 85 to 111, Plate 3, and 1 text fignr* 

Date of publication, January 6, 1898. 



WASHINGTON: 

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 

1898. 



By*-**". 






Bull. U. S. F C. 1897. (To face page 85.) 



Plate 3. 



raw si'or ma 




^e^> 



A N T I C 



C E 



N 



^2 



MAP SHOWING THE REGION OF WOODS HOLE MASS. 



Plate 3. 



3 -THE FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 



BY HUGH M. SMITH, 
Chit'/ of Division of Scitiitijic Inquiry t U. S. Fisli Commission. 



Since the establishment of the United States Commission of Fish and Fisheries 
in 1871, systematic fish collecting has been carried on at "Woods Hole, Massachusetts, 
by Commission assistants. In the year named, Prof. Spencer F. Baird studied the 
fish fauna of the region and later published a list of the species then observed which 
has served as a valuable guide in subsequent investigation. 

For more than a quarter of a century almost daily observations, based on collec- 
tions, have been made and recorded, and it may be safely asserted that nowhere else 
in the United States has such long-continued and comprehensive work of this char- 
acter been done. The duty of collecting specimens and recording information has 
fallen chiefly to the lot of Mr. Yinal X. Edwards, of the Fish Commission, to whose 
assiduous labors the principal additions to the fish fauna are due. 

The collection of specimens has been done chiefly with fine-meshed bag seines, 
about 150 feet long, hauled from the shore in harbors and coves and on the beaches 
in Vineyard Sound and Buzzards Bay. This has been supplemented by the setting 
of fyke nets in suitable localities, by the employment of surface tow nets and dip 
nets, and by the use of hand lines. The traps or pound nets of the commercial lisher- 
men in Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound have also been regularly visited and have 
yielded many interesting specimens. 

Professor Baird's " List of fishes collected at' Woods Hole " ' has remained the 
only list of the kind. It gives the names of 121 species taken in 1871, two of which 
have since been shown to be identical, leaving 120 species known from the region 
at that time. In the twenty-seven years that have since elapsed the list has been 
augmented almost annually by one or more fishes and has grown to the large 
proportions here shown. 

In the Eeport of the U. S. Fish Commission for 1882, Dr. Tarleton H. Bean pub- 
lished a " List of fishes collected by the U. 8. Fish Commission at Woods Hole, Mass., 
during the summer of 1881." It mentions about 114 species, but less than half of this 
number were fishes actually obtained in the vicinity of Woods Hole, the others being 
deep-sea or offshore fishes, like the tilefish, pole flounder, and hagfish, brought to the 
station by exploring vessels. 

The present list is based on the collections of Woods Hole fishes at the station, 
in the U. S. National Museum, and at the laboratory of the Fish Commission in Wash- 
ington, on the yearly records kept by Mr. Edwards, and on personal observations by 
the writer in 1897. 

1 Report U. S. Fish Commission, 1871-2, pp. 823-827. 

85 



86 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 

Partly on account of the systematic collecting, and partly because of the very 
favorable geographical position of Woods Hole, an unexpectedly large number of 
fishes have been ascertained to inhabit the region as permanent residents, regular 
seasonal migrants, casual visitants, or stragglers. There is probably no other locality 
in the United States, with the exception of southern Florida, in which so many species 
have been detected. Excluding the fresh- water fishes, more than 200 species have been 
obtained at Woods Hole. The section is interesting as marking the northern limit 
of distribution of many common fishes, and, on the other hand, the southern limit of a 
number of northern species. 

The most striking feature of the fauna is the extent to which species character- 
istic of the West Indies or Florida are represented. This enrichment of the fauna 
is directly traceable to the Gulf Stream, which is within about 100 miles of Woods 
Hole. Most of the southern fishes are very young, the adults of many species 
being either entirely absent or quite rare; and it is apparent that their presence in the 
waters of southern New England is involuntary. Falling within the influence of the 
Gulf Stream, the small fishes are passively carried northward. A common medium 
of transfer is the gulf- weed or sargasso- weed (Sargassum bacciferum), under which 
the fishes congregate for protection. The patches of floating weed arc often of large 
size, affording ample shelter and at the same time furnishing food to the fishes 
beneath and among them. Winds from the south, southeast, east, or northeast dislodge 
the weed from the Gulf Stream and distribute it along the shores of the United 
States. The configuration of the shore of southern New England forms a kind of 
huge pocket in which the drift is concentrated, in Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound, 
from a wide expanse of sea. The weed appears in this section every year and is 
distributed by winds and tides in Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound. It is most 
abundant after southerly winds. The fishes which it shelters gradually become 
dispersed in the inshore waters as the weed is driven ashore or dies and sinks. 

There is every reason to believe that practically all the young fishes which do not 
get out of the Gulf Stream before it has ascended very far along the east coast of 
the United States must inevitably perish, since their small size makes their return to 
southern waters almost impossible. Those which are blown ashore on the Middle 
and North Atlantic coasts in spring, summer, and early fall doubtless find the surface 
water not uncongenial, and survive until winter, while those which are carried out of 
the Gulf Stream in winter must very quickly succumb to the cold. The Gulf Stream 
is, in fact, a great highway along which a continuous body of fish and other animals, 
in infinite variety, is being carried from their natural habitat in the south to almost 
certain destruction in the north. 

During July, 1897, there was an unusual prevalence of southerly, southeasterly, 
and southwesterly winds. Toward the end of the month the weed drifted into Vine- 
yard Sound and Buzzards Bay in large quantities, and was distributed by the tide in 
long, straggling lines. To this circumstance may be attributed the capture during the 
subsequent summer and fall months of a number of fishes that were either very rare 
or wholly unknown in the region heretofore. On .July 24, in the course of two hours, 
15 species were obtained in gulf-weed off Great Harbor, by means of small dip nets 
operated from a sailboat. Among these were the marbled angler (Pterophryne Mstrio), 
Bermuda chub (Kyphosus sectatrix), log perch (Palinurichthys perciformis), rudder-fish 
(Seriola sonata), dolphin (Coryphana hvppurus), trigger-fish (Batistes vetula), sobaco 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 87 

(Canthirtermis asperrimus), and filefish (Monacanthus hispidus). A single piece or mass 
of gulf- weed was sometimes found to harbor a number of species of fishes. 
The information hereafter presented consists of the following parts: 

I. Annotated list of fishes known to inhabit the Woods Hole region. 
II. Fishes of the Woods Hole region not previously reported so far north or 
south. 

III. Fishes obtained in the Woods Hole region which have not yet been found 

elsewhere on the United States coasts. 

IV. Fishes recorded from adjacent localities which may be looked for near 

Woods Hole. 
V. Fresh-water fishes collected in the vicinity of Woods Hole. 

A map is appended covering the. region within a radius of about 25 miles of 
Woods Hole and showing the places referred to in the accompanying lists. 

The visits of many biological students annually to Woods Hole and the continu 
ation of systematic collecting by the Commission warrant the expectation of a number 
of additions to the fish fauna in the next few years. The use of a small purse seine 
offshore in Vineyard Sound and Buzzards Bay and the employment of a small beam 
trawl on suitable bottom in the same waters will undoubtedly result in bringing to 
light fishes new to the region. That there is still something to be learned regarding 
the fish life of this section may be readily inferred from the outcome of the collections 
in 1897, when, twenty-six years after systematic work was begun, five species, including 
one species new to science, were added to the list. 

This paper is presented chiefly as a basis for future inquiry; it contains but little 
information concerning the fishes mentioned, with the exception of a statement of 
their abundance and the times when they are found. The daily observations that 
have been made regarding the fishes of the region, supplemented by meteorological 
data and the very valuable fish-cultural records of the station, afford material for a 
comprehensive account of the fish fauna which it is hoped will shortly be prepared. 



88 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 

I.— ANNOTATED LIST OF FISHES KNOWN TO INHABIT THE WOODS HOLE REGION. 

In the following list there are arranged in systematic order, by families, all species 
of fishes known to bave been found in the vicinity of Woods Hole. In nomenclature 
and sequence of species, the "Check List of the Fishes and Fish-like Vertebrates of 
North and Middle America" ' has been followed. The local names which the fishes 
bear in this region are indicated by means of quotation marks. The existence in 
collections of specimens from tin's section is for convenience and brevity designated 
for each species by means of signs; an asterisk (*) referring to the fish collection of 
the U. S. National Museum in Washington, a dagger (t) to the local museum of the 
Fish Commission at Woods Hole, and a section mark (§) to the laboratory of the 
Fish Commission at Washington. The fishes enumerated represent 88 families, 160 
genera, and 209 species. The families having a noteworthy number of species are 
the Clupeidce, 9 species; the Scombridce, 11 species; the Carangidce, 18 species; the 
Sciamida; 7 species; and the Gadidce, !> species. 

PETROMYZONID^J. The Lampreys. 

1. Petromyzon marinus LiimaMis. Great Sea Lamprey ; " Lamprey Eel" ; " hamper Eel." (* t) 

Not abundant. Taken in traps in Buzzards Bay in May and June. 

GALEIDjE The Requiem Sharks. 

2. Mustelus canis (Mitchill). Smooth Dogfish ; "Dogfish"; " Switch-tail." (« t) 

Very abundant from about June 1 to November. Feeds mostly on crabs. The largest examples 
are 5 feet long, the usual length being 3 feet. 

3. G-aleocerdo tigrinus Miiller & llenlet Tiger Shark; "Spotted Shark." (*) 

Present every year in variable abundance, and caught in traps in Vineyard Sound and Buzzards 
Bay. The last species of shark to appear in this regiou, rarely coming before August. It remains 
until October. Usual length, 5 feet. 

4. Prionace glauca (Linmeus). (Sreat Blue Shark. (*) 

Very rare, apparently only one having been taken; this was obtained from a trap in July, 1877. 

5. Carcharhinus obscurus (LeSneur). Dusky Shark; "Shovel-nose." (* t) 

Very common, but less so than the sand shark. Taken in traps and on lines fished from wharves. 
Comes about June 1 and remains through a part of November. The largest observed here are 12 to 14 
feet long; the average are 8 or 9 feet, and the smallest are 2} feet. 

6. Carcharhinus milberti (Miiller & Henle). Blue Shark. (') 

Given by Professor Baird in his 1871 list. Four examples about 4 feet long were taken in a trap 
at the breakwater, on August 8, 1873, and sent to Washington. None has, since been observed. Their 
color is described by Mr. Edwards as being an intense, almost indigo, blue. 

7. Carcharhinus limbatus (Miiller & Henle). Spotted-fin Shark. C) 

Observed on only one occasion. In 1878 at least 20 were taken in traps at the breakwater and 
Quisset Harbor during a period of three weeks. All were about 4 feet long, and all were found dead 
in the traps. The " stray specimen taken at Woods Hole, Mass.," referred to in several lists of Ameri- 
can fishes, was one of the foregoing lot that was sent to Washington. 

SPHYRNID.S2. The Hammer-headed Sharks. 

8. Sphyrna zygaena (Linnaeus). Hammer-headed Shark ; "Hammerhead"; " Ilakehead." (* t) 

Usually common; some years abundant. Taken in traps from July to October, being most 
numerous in July and August. Generally swims with its dorsal and caudal fins out of the water. 
The largest ones taken here are 7 or 8 feet long; the smallest are under If feet, and the average are 4 
feet. The name " rakehead " is an old local designation of this species 

1 Report U. S. Fish Commission, 1895. 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 81) 

ALOPIIDiE. The Thresher Sharks. 

9. Alopias vulpes (Gmelin). Thresher: "Thrasher;" Swingle-tail. (*) 

Common in Vineyard Sound in vicinity of Menemsha; also found in Buzzards Bay. Not infre- 
quently caught in the fish traps. In fall the hoat cod fishermen at Gay Head catch them ou lines 
baited with fresh herring. At Woods Hole three "thrashers" 16 feet long were taken one morning in 
a trap at the breakwater. Specimens 20 feet long have been caught at Menemsha. Some only 4 feet 
long have been obtained. This species comes in April and remains until late in fall. 

CARCHARIIDiE. The Sand Sharks. 

10. Carcharias littoralis (Mitchill). "Sand Shark." (* t) 

The commonest shark in this region, found from June to November, and often caught with traps 
and lines. The largest are 12 feet long; the average length is 4A or 5 feet. Fish, crabs, and various 
other animals are found in their stomachs. 

LAMNID51. The Mackerel Sharks. 

11. Isurus dekayi (Gill). "Mackerel Shark." (* t) 

Quite common in Vineyard Sound and Buzzards Bay. Most numerous in fall, remaining till end 
of November. Largest 10 feet long; average 1 to 5 feet. 

12. Carcharodon carcharias (Linmeus). Man-eater Shark. (*) 

Rare. Reported by Professor Baird in his 1871 list. The U. S. National Museum contains several 
specimens sent from Woods Hole. 

SQUALIDiE. The Dog-Pishes. 

13. Squalus acanthias Linmeus. Dot/fish; " Horned Dogfish." (* t) 

Less abundant than formerly, and comparatively scarce in 1897. When the fish factory was 
established at Woods Hole, this was the principal fish utilized in the manufacture of oil and guano; 
later, the scarcity or irregularity of the supply necessitated the use of menhaden. When the horned 
dogfish first comes, in May, it feeds largely on ctenophores. 

SQUATINIDiE. The Angel Sharks. 

14. Squatina squatina (Linmeus). Angel-fish ; Monkfish. (*) 

A specimen weighing 35 or 40 pounds and 3 or 4 feet long was taken in a fish trap at Menemsha 
Bight, September 1, 1873. It was sent to Washington at the time. The species has not since been 
observed. 

HAJIDJE. The Skates. 

15. Raja erinacea Mitchill. Summer Skate ;" Bonnet Skate." (* t) 

The commonest species of skate in this region. Found from June to October. In allusion to the 
habit the fish has of rolling itself up when caught, the local fishermen call it the "bonnet skate." 

16. Raja ocellata Mitchill. Big Skate ; " Winter Skate." (" t) 

Common from February to June and from October 15 to end of trap fishing. Either absent or very 
rare in summer. 

17. Raja radiata Donovan. Starrg Hay. (*) Not common. 

18 Raja eglanteria Bosc. Brier Bay. (* t) 

Not common. A few taken every year in traps at Menemsha; formerly caught at the breakwater. 

19. Raja laevis Mitchill. " Barndoor Skate." (* t) Common in spring and fall, rare in summer. 

NARCOBATIDiE. The Electric Rays. 

20. Tetranarce occidentalis (Storer). Torpedo; "Crampfish." (* t) 

Not uncommon in Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound from May to November. Most numerous in 
October and November. At times as many as half a dozen are taken at one lift of a trap at Menemsha. 
The average weight is 30 pounds, the maximum 75 pounds, and the minimum 4 or5 pounds. 



90 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 

DASYATIDiE. The Stingrays. 

21. Dasyatis centrum (Mitchill). " Sting Bay." {* t) 

Common during summer, appearing early in July. The fishermen are much afraid of them. 

22. Pteroplatea maclura (LeSueur). Butterfly Bay ; "Angel-fish." ('t) 
Rare. Observed mostly in August and September. 

MYLIOBATID-ffi. The Eagle Rays. 

23. Myliobatis frerninvillei LeSueur. Sharp-headed Bay ; " Sting Bay." (* t) 

Not very common. A few are taken every year in traps. 

24. Rhinoptera bonasus (Mitchill). Cow-nosed Bay ; "Sting Bay." C t) Common 

ACIPENSERID-ffi. The Sturgeons. 

25. Acipenser sturio Linnaeus. "Sturgeon." (~t) 

Common. Most numerous in Vineyard Sound in June and July. Has the habit of jumping out 
of the water; at times as many as half a dozen may be seen in the sound at onco. There is a 
considerable catch in traps, many 3 to 4 feet long being taken. The sturgeon was formerly thrown 
away when caught, but is now sold. 

26. Acipenser brevirostris LeSueur. short-nosed Sturgeon, (t) 

Found in company with common sturgeon, but less numerous than latter. Taken in traps 

SILURID-Sl. The Cat-Fishes. 

27. Felichthys marinus (Mitchill). Sea Catfish; Gaff-topsail Catfish. (* t) 

Quite rare. Reported by Professor Band in 1871. Recently but few have been seen; one speci- 
men caught in a trap at Meuemsha in 1886 is preserved in the collection. 

28. Galeichthys felis (Linnaeus). Sea Catfish, (t) 

Reported to have been common in spring in Vineyard Sound many years ago, being often taken 

with cod; now very rare, and only occasionally observed since the Fish Commission station at \V Is 

Hole was established. A specimen was taken in 1887, since which time none has been reported. 

ANGTJILLIDiE. The True Eels. 

29. Anguilla chrysypa Rafmesque. "Eel." (* t $) 

Abundant at all times, but most numerous in October. On west side of Buzzards Bay traps have 
been set especially for eels, and large catches have been made. During two weeks in October, 1896, 
one trap took 350 barrels; in one night between 30 and 35 barrels were caught. 

LEPTOCEPHALIDiE. The Conger Eels. 

30. Leptocephalus conger (Linmcus). Conger Eel. (* t) 

Comes in July and remains until fall; very commoa for several years, but rather rare formerly. 
Fishermen as a rule do not distinguish from the common eel. A few are taken in traps and with lines, 
but many large ones, weighing from S pounds upward, are caught in lobster pots. A specimen iu 
the collection weighs 10 pounds. One, caught on a line at Falmouth, August 30, 1897, weighed 12 
pounds. The smallest observed are 15 to 20 inches long. 

ELOPID.ffi. The Tarpons. 

31. Tarpon atlanticus (Cuvier & Valenciennes). Tarpon. 

Taken every year in traps at South Dartmouth, also occasionally at Quisset and at Meuemsha, in 
latter part of September. All are about one size, 80 to 100 pounds. Fishermen call them " big-scale 
fish." An effort has been made to find a market for them in New Bedford, but the people did not like 
them, owing to the toughness of the flesh. 

32. Elops saurus Linnaus. Ten-pounder. Big-eyed Herring. (* t) 

Common in tall, none appearing before October. Taken in traps in Vineyard Sound and in 
herring gill nets at Vineyard Haven. Many have been sent to the Fish Commission by fishermen for 
identification. Average length. 18 to L'O inches. No young fish observed. 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 91 

ALBULIDiE The Lady-Fishes. 

33. Albula vulpes (Linn.eus). Lady-fish; Unnefish. (*) 

Very rare. Reported by Professor Baird in 1871, and since observed only once or twice. None 
seen for many years. 

CLUPEID^EJ. The Herrings. 

34. Etrumeus sadina (Mitchill). Bound Herring. (*) 

Apparently rare. Known to have been found on only a few occasions. Some years ago, in Octo- 
ber, several were taken in traps at Menemsha Bight. 

35. Clupea harengus Linnseus. Sea Herring ; "Herring"; "Sperling" (young). (* t) 

Schools of large herring, in a spawning condition, appear about October 15 and remain till very 
cold weather sets in, their departure corresponding with that of cod. By January young herring 
i inch long are taken in surface tow nets; by May 1 they are 1 to 1J inches long, and by August lthey 
have attained a length of 2i to 3 inches. Fish 3 to 5 inches long, called "Sperling," are found from 
September 1 to end of season and are used for mackerel bait. About June 1 there is a large run of 
herring, smaller than those in the fall run. This lasts two weeks, during which the traps are full of 
them. No use is made of the early run, but in fall they are caught in gill nets for food and bait. 

36. Clupanodon pseudohispanicus (Poey). Spanish Sardine. (* t) 

First seen in 1892, when it was abundant throughout the region. It appeared at Menemsha in 
September and was taken in the traps. A few weeks later it was found in large numbers at Woods 
lbde. remaining till late in fall. In Eel Pond over 250 were taken at one seine-haul. Since then only 
a very few have been observed each year, none being taken in 1897. The tisb is 4 or 5 inches long and 
is usually found with young herring (Clupea harengus) of slightly smaller size. 

37. Pomolobus mediocris (Mitchill). " Hickory Shad." (* t) 

Common. Comes in spring but is most numerous from last of September to end of trap-fishing 
season. In October, 1895, a trap near Tarpaulin Cove caught 3,500 at one lift. These brought 10 cents 
each in New York. In spring and summer the fish has no market value, but iu fall it is shipped to 
New York. 

38. Pomolobus pseudoharengus (Wilson). Branch Herring; ••. lieu -if:"; •■Birer Herring." (* t §) 
Arrives in March aud is taken during March and April. By May 1 most of the lish have entered 

the streams aud ponds to spawn; early in May it begins to return to salt water. Many are caught in 
scoop nets for bait. 

39. Pomolobus aestivalis (Mitchill). Glut Herring; "Blackback." (* t J) 
Common. Comes later than branch herring. Spawns in adjacent ponds. 

40. Alosa sapidissima (Wilson). "Sliad." (* t) 

Comes about May 1 aud is taken in traps. Less numerous than formerly; twenty-five years ago 
probably 100 times as many were caught as iu recent years. In 1897 the average number taken in a 
trap was not over three to five. 

41. Opisthonema oglinum (LeSueur). Thread Herring. (* t) 

Very rare. A number were taken in the fall of 1871, but the species is not recorded in Professor 
Baird's list. In 1885 it was quite common in Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound in July. It remained 
about a month, and specimens were taken in traps at almost every lift. During the next four years 
the fish was also noticed, but none has been seen since 1890. Recorded from Newport, Rhode Island, 
from which place the type came; but not regularly found north of the Carolinas. 

42. Brevoortia tyramius (Latrobe). "Menhaden"; " Pogy." (* t <J) 

Arrives in schools about May 20, but scattered fish are taken in March with alewives: they remain 
until first of December, sometimes as late as December 20, but are most abundant in June. When 
the schools first arrive the reproductive organs of many of the fish are in an advanced stage of devel- 
opment, but after July 1 none with large ovaries are found. Late in fall the fish again have well- 
developed roes. The smallest fish are about au inch long; these are found in little schools about the 
shores and wharves as early as July 15. The young are abundant throughout summer and fall. The 
average length of adult menhaden is 13 or 11 inches; one lish 18 inches long, probably the largest ever 
observed, was caught here in 1876. 



92 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 

ENGRAULIDIDiE. The Anchovies. 

43. Stolephorus browiiii (Goielin). Striped Anchovy ; •'Anchovy." (*H) 

Abundant. Occasionally rather uncommon. Found from August to late in fall. Much the most 
numerous species of anchovy. 

44. Stolephorus argyrophanus (Cuvier. & Valenciennes). "Anchovy." (M) 

Not uncommon at times. Most numerous in fall, iu company with small herring. 

45. Stolephorus mitchilli (Cuvier & Valenciennes). "Anchovy.'' (* t) 
Abundant. Associates with S. browiiii. 

SALMONID£. The Salmon Family. 

46. Salmo salar Linnaeus. Salmon. (" t) 

A few are taken every year in traps in Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound, generally in May. 
The usual weight of those caught is 24 pounds, large fish being rare. As having salmon in one's posses- 
sion is against Massachusetts law, it is difficult to learu much about the fish from the fishermen. 

47. Salvelinus foutinalis (Mitchill). Brook Trout; Speckled Trout, (t) 

Abounds iu the fresh waters of the region, and in fall, where communication exists, regularly 
enters the salt water, remaining through winter. Occasionally taken in fyke nets set in Great Harbor 
and Little Harbor. 

ARGENTINID-S. The Smelts. 

48. Osmerus mordax (Mitchill). "Smelt." (* t §) 

Most abundant in March, but common from October to May; a few are found in summer in Eel 
Poud and Hadley Harbor. Spawns in February and March. Maximum leugth 11 inches, minimum 
24 inches; fishes of the latter size being seined in Eel Pond. 

SYNODONTIDiE. The Lizard-Fishes. 

49. Trachiuocephalus myops (Forster). Ground Spearing. (* t) 

Rare. On September 10, 1892, two specimens, 4 inches and 2i inches long, respectively, were taken 
at Nobska Beach, Woods Hole, in a seine. The National Museum contains a specimen obtained at 
Woods Hole September 3, 1887, and others taken in 1876, 1878, and 1887. 

50. Synodus fastens (LimuBns). Lizard-fish, (t §) 

First noted in 1885, since which time a few have been taken nearly every year in September on 
the beach inside of Nobska Point. Generally 3 or 4 inches long, but a few are 6 inches long. 

MAUROLICIDiE. 

51. Maurolicus pennanti (Walbaum). (*) 

A specimen of this pelagic species was taken at Woods Hole on January 3. 1884, and is now in the 
U. S. National Museum. In August, 1879, oue was found on the beach near Provincetown, Mass. 

PCECILIID.ffi. The Killifishes. 

52. Fundulus majalis (Walbaum). May fish; Killijish. (* t) 

Common in summer, especially on sandy beaches. Leaves late in fall and is not seen until about 
April ], from which time till May it increases in abundance. Spawns in June. 

53. Fundulus heteroclitus (Liumeus). Common Killijish ; Afummichog. (* t J) 

Most abundant of the mummichogs, and present at all seasons. Found principally in eelgrass. 
Spawning is chiefly iu June, but to some extent in July and August. 

54. Fundulus diaphanus (LeSneur). Spring Minnow ; Killifish. ( * t $) 

Common throughout year. Very abundant in Waquoit Bay and other places having fresh-water 
tributaries. Rare in Eel Pond. Found in Hadley Harbor, where there are springs. 

55. Lucania parva (Baird & Giraxd). Bain water-fish, (t) 

First taken in 1881 in Waquoit Bay, 9 or 10 miles east of Woods nole, on Vineyard Sound. Since 
then obtained iu all brackish ponds between there and the station. In 1897 was found in Eel Pond 
and Quisset Harbor for first time. 

56. Cyprinodon variegatus Laoepede. Short Minnow : Variegated Minnow. (" t) 

Locally abundant iu salt-water ponds uoar Falmouth. A few are found in Woods Hole Harbor. 
Spawns in June. 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 93 

ESOCID.S3. The Needle-Fishes and Gar-Fishes. 

57. Tylosurus marinus (Walbaum). Garfish; Iiillfish; "Bill Eel." (* t $) 

Common. Fish 2 to 3 feet long arrive about June 15 and arc caught in traps with scup. Young, 
from 3 to 6 inches long, found along shores and in harbors in summer. Examples 10 to 24 inches 
long are usually common and often abundant in September and October. 

58. Tylosurus acus (Lacepede). Houndfish. (* t) 

A fish of this species, 4} feet long, now in the Woods Hole collection, was taken in a trap at the 
breakwater August 6, 1885; on the top of its head, between the eyes, were 5 or 6 barnacles, each 
about 2} inches long. In the Proceedings of the National Museum for 1878, Dr. Goode refers to the 
capture of this houndfish (then called Belone latimana) at Woods Hole in 1875. This specimen was 
49 inches long and weighed 5i pounds. Several other specimens have, from time to time, been sent to 
Washington from Woods Hole. 

59. Athlennes hians (Cuvier & Valenciennes). (§) 

In the summer of 1895, a specimen of this fish, 2J feet long, was brought into the Woods Hole 
market from a trap at the breakwater. This is the only known occurrence of the species in these 
waters, or, in fact, north of Florida. 

HEMIRAMPHID.53. The Halfbeaks. 

60. Hyporhamphus roberti (Cuvier & Valenciennes). Half beak; "Skipper." (*t) 

Usually common; often abundant at month of Vineyard Sound. Found in July, August, and 
September. Caught in traps at Menemsha, and has also been seined at West Falmouth, on Buzzards 
Bay. The usual size of the fish is 8 inches, but specimens as small as 3 inches are taken in the tine- 
meshed collecting seine. In August the thresher shark may frequently be seen among the schools of 
halfbeaks near Gay Head; when the sharks are driving the fish and causing them to "skip," the 
jajgers (Stercorarius) catch them with great dexterity. 

SCOMBERESOCID-S!. The Sauries. 

61. Scomberesox saurus (Walbaum). Saury; Skipper; BiUfish. ("t) 

Very rare. Given by Professor Baird in his 1871 list. Since then observed only a few times. 
Several specimens now in Washington were taken prior to 1880. On December 4, 1885, one was 
seined on the beach near Nobska Point. Very abundant on the northern side of Cape Cod late in 
fall, and hundreds of barrels are sometimes taken there in traps; many also go ashore. 

EXOCCETIDiE. The Flying-Fishes. 

62. Exoccetus volitans Linnanis. "Flying-fish." t ti 

Common some years, but usually scarce. Taken in traps in Vineyard Sound, and a few have been 
caught in Great Harbor. Small lish, from 1-J to 4 inches, are obtained in seines in the harbor in the 
latter part of September and the first of October. Even the smallest specimens have been observed 
to "fly " a distance of 10 feet. 

GASTEROSTEIDiE. The Sticklebacks. 

63. Pygosteus pungitius (Linnajus). Ninespined Stickleback. (* t §) 

Common in Eel Pond, Quisset Harbor, and Hadley Harbor, but rare in open harbors. Present 
throughout the year. 

64. Gasterosteus bispinosus Walbaum. Two-spined Stickleback. (* t §) 

Most common of the sticklebacks, being, perhaps, twenty times as numerous as Apeltes. Found 
throughout the year. 

65. Gasterosteus gladiunculus Kendall. ($) 

A stickleback taken at the surface October 15, 1897, is referable to this species. It may be distin- 
guished from G. bispinosus by its greater depth, brighter color, and fewer dorsal and anal rays. 
Reported as not uncommon at the surface in April and May, but rare at other times. 

66. Apeltes quadracus (Mitchill). Fotir-spiitcd Stickleback. (* t §) 
Very common. Found at all seasons. 



94 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 

FISTULARIIDiE. The Cornet-Fishes. 

67. Fistularia tabacaria Linnans. Trumpet-fish. (* t $) 

A few are observed every year, mostly in Buzzards Bay near Quissetj some are taken in Great 
Harbor; found mostly in September and October. The usual size is 7 or 8 inches, the smallest 4 
inches; the largest specimen, about 16 inches long, was caught at the station within the inner basin. 

SYNGNATHIDiE. The Pipe-Fishes. 

6S. Siphostoma fuscum (Storer). Pipefish. (* t $) 

The types of this species were obtained at Woods Hole. 1 Very common from about the first of 
May till December, and probably present throughout the year. Found chiefly among eelgvass. 
Spawning occurs about June 1. Very young transparent pipefish are sometimes taken at the surface 
in tow nets in July. 

HIPPOCAMPIDiE. The Sea-Horses. 

69. Hippocampus hudsonius DeKay. Sea-horse, (t) 

Rare. A few are picked up every year iu August and September in Vineyard Sound in gulf-weed 
or rock-weed. All are about 4 inches long. 

ATHERINIDiE. The Silversides. 

70. Menidia gracilis (Giinther). Silverside. (t §) 

Abundant. Often in large dense bodies about piers in July, August, and September and as late 
as December. Appears early in spring and remains later than M. notata. 

71. Menidia notata (Mitchill). Silverside; "Brit." (* t $) 

Very abundant from April to December. In November exceedingly numerous iu harbor. 

MUGILIDiE. The Mullets. 

72. Mugil cephalus Linn.rus. striped Mullet; "Jumping Mullet." (* t J) 

Commoner than the white mullet. Found from September to end of October, going iu largo 
schools about October 1. Largest, 10 inches ; average, 7 or 8 inches. 

73. Mugil curema Cuvier «Y Valenciennes. White Mullet; "Jumping Mullet." (* t) 

Common from July 1 to October. Largest, 5 inches long. In summer fish from } inch to 2 iuches 
long and upward are taken. 

74. Querimana gyraus Jordan & Gilbert. Whirligig Mullet. ($) 

Common in summer. Originally described from Key West, this species has been successively 
recorded from North Carolina, Virginia, and Massachusetts." 

SPHYR^lNIDiE. The Barracudas. 

75. Sphyraena barracuda (Walbaum). Barracuda. (§) 

A rare straggler. First recorded from Woods Hole by Dr. Goode, who says "it occasionally finds 
its way into our northern waters, and one or two specimens of it and other West Indian species have 
been taken at Woods Hole." 5 A young example 3} inches loug was seined at Quisset Harbor Sep- 
tember 22, 1897. 

76. Sphyraena guachancho Cuvier & Valencienues. Barracuda. (*) 

A rare straggler not recently met with. A specimen 22 inches long was taken at Woods Hole July 
7, 1876. Another was caught in Buzzards Bay, near Woods Hole, July 17, 1883. 

77. Sphyraena borealis DeKay. Barracuda. (* t §) 

Dr. Goode 3 said of this fish in 1882 that it had "recently appeared in considerable numbers on 
the coast of southern Massachusetts. ' No specimens of greater length than 10 or 12 inchei 

have ever been taken, and individuals of this size are very unusual, though smaller oues, ranging 
from 2 to 6 inches, are occasionally found iu large schools about the western end of Marthas Vineyard 



1 See Storer, Kept. Mass. Fishes, 1838. -See Bull. U. S. F. C. 1894, p. 20. 3 Nat. Hist. A<iuat. Anim., p. 448. 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 05 

and about Wood's Ho]], Massachusetts. It seems incredible that the young should occur so abun- 
dantly in these waters anil the full-grown individuals should be absent. This is possibly because we 
do not yet know how to capture them." 

Specimens 2 to 6 inches long are common in this region after July, but huge lish are rare. Most 
numerous at Woods Hole from October 1 to December, although at Gay Head many occur as early as 
July and many are caught in fish traps in fall. When snow falls early, large numbers sometimes 
come ashore dead in Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound. Examples 18 inches loug are sometimes 
taken, but those 12 inches long are uncommon and the usual length of the larger fish is only 8 inches. 

POLYNEMIDiE. The Threadfins. 

78. Polydactylus octonemus (Girard). Eight-threaded Threadfish. 

A specimen 4 inches long was taken in a seine in Little Harbor in September, 1882. The identifi- 
cation was by Professor Baird (as Trichidion oclojiliis). The fish was sent to Washington at the time, 
and appears on the lish register of the National Museum, but seems to have been lost. 

AMMODYTIDJE. The Sand Launces. 

79. Ammodytes americanus DeKay. Sand Launce; Lant; "Sand Eel." (" t §) 

Found throughout the year, although most abundant late in fall and early in spring. Only a lew- 
are observed Li winter, and ordinarily they are not especially common in summer, In it some years 
(1X97, for instance) they are fairly plentiful; they usually frequent sandy beaches and rips, and go in 
dense schools. In this region the launce is rather small, rarely exceeding (> inches in length, but on 
the north side of Cape Cod the size is usually 8 inches. This fish is one of the principal foods of the 
mackerel in this section. Although it burrows in the sand with great rapidity, it is readily caught by 
the mackerel. 

80. Ammodytes dubius Reinhardt. Sand Launce. (*) 

Apparently very rare on the south side of Cape Cod and known to have been taken thero on only 
one occasion (June, 1877), but regularly found north of the cape. 

MULLIDiE. The Surmullets. 
81 Mullus auratus Jordan A Gilbert. Goatfish. (* t) 

Rare. Taken every year in September, mostly in Quisset Harbor. Usually not more than 4 to 6 
are obtained annually. Prior to ten years ago the fish was rather more numerous than now, the 
National Museum containing a good many specimens taken between 1875 and 1880. 

SCOMBRID51. The Mackerels. 
Of the richness of the Woods Hole fish fauna the representation of this family is an illustration. 
Of the 15 species of Scombridos known to inhabit the waters of North and Middle America, 11 have 
been obtained at. Woods Hole. 

82. Scomber scombrus Liunanis. Common Mackerel. (* t. $) 

This region has felt the general scarcity of mackerel, which has now (1897) existed for more than 
ten years. Nevertheless, a good many small and medium-sized mackerel have recently been taken in 
Vineyard Sound, and some years there has been a run of large fish. There is a regular mackerel line 
fishery carried on with eatboats in Vineyard Sound near Gayhead, and the fish is also taken in traps 
at Menemsha and in Buzzards Bay. The mackerel appears in the latter part of May or about June 1 
and remains for about two weeks; it then disappears for about two weeks, when it is thought to be 
spawning. About July 4 the fishermen look for its reappearance, after which it remains until the 
latter part of November. 

83. Scomber colias Gmelin. Chub Mackerel ; " Bull's-, rye Marker*}." (* t) 

Some years abundant in Vineyard Sound and lower part of Buzzards Bay ; other years uncommon. 
Caught in traps and also on lines while fishing for common mackerel. Usually appear about July 15 
and leave late in October. 

84. Auxis thazard (Laccpede). Frigate Mackerel ; "Bonito"; "Tunny.'' (t) 

Very rare. First observed in 1885, when one was taken in a trap at Menemsha Bight. Since then 
only one has been recorded; this was caught in a pound net at Wool's Hole, June 29, 1892. These 
weighed respectively 3A and 3 pounds. 



96 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 

85. Gymnosarda pelamis (Linna?ns). Oceanic Bonilo; " Blue Bonito." (*) 

This fish has been reported in the Woods Hole region on only one occasion, in 1878, when there 
was a remarkable run iu the traps at Menemsha. The fish remained in the vicinity several weeks, and 
were caught daily in some of the nets. As many as 2,000 or 3,000 in all were taken. The name " blue 
bonito" was given them by the fishermen iu allusion to the intense dark bine of the back. They were 
about the same length as the common bonito, but were somewhat heavier. The species was first takeu 
on the United States coast in July, 1877, when a specimen was obtained at Frovincetown, Mass. 

86. Gymnosarda alleterata (Rafinesque). Little Tunny : "Tunny"; Bonito. (") 

Usually abundant in Vineyard Sound in July ami August. Taken only at Menemsha, where some- 
times as many as 100 are caught in a net at one lift. All are of one size, weighing about 8 pounds. 
The species is stated by Goode 1 to have made its first appearance in American waters in 1871, when 
several large schools were observed by the Fish Commission in Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound. 

87. Thunnus thynnus (Linnaeus). Horm Mackerel; Tunny. (*) 

Formerly plentiful, but rare for a number of years ; none for five years in Buzzards Bay traps. 
About 1888, one weighing 630 pounds was taken in a trap off Quisset Harbor. Abundant on the north 
side of Cape Cod. 

88. Germo alalunga (Gmelin). Long-finned Albacore. 

On May 21, 1895, a specimen 3 feet long and weighing 21 pounds became entangled in the leader 
of a fyke net set in Great Harbor and was thus caught. This appears to be the only known occurrence 
of the fish on the Atlantic coast of the United States, although it is found in the eastern Atlantic and 
Mediterranean, as well as in the Pacific. 

89. Sardasarda (Bloch). "Bonilo." (* t) 

Usually common. Some years abundant and some quite scarce. In traps, at Menemsha, as many 
as 1,000 are often taken daily in August, September, and first part of October. The average weight 
is 3£ to 4 pounds; a few weigh 7 or 8 pounds, and many small ones are caught weighing only half a 
pound. Very young fish are rare. On one occasion some 2 inches long were taken in July at 
Menemsha. 

90. Scomberomorus maculatus (Mitehill). " Spanish Mackerel." (* t) 

Rare during recent years, and apparently scarcer each season. Formerly abundant. In 1883 or 
1884 530 were taken at one lift of a trap at the breakwater. When the fish was abundant it was more 
common in Buzzards Bay than in Vineyard Sound. Only one or two have of late been taken annually. 
The average weight in this region is 2i pounds. 

91. Scomberomorus cavalla (Cuvier). "Cero." (* t) 

Appears in Vineyard Sound about July 1, and is quite common until the end of the trap-fishing 
season. It is much more common than the Spanish mackerel. At times 8 or 10 are taken at one lift 
of a trap at Menemsha. When traps were set in Buzzards Bay about 35 or 40 of this and the preced- 
ing species were caught annually at Quisset. The fishermen do not distinguish S. cavalla from S. rcyalis, 
but call both "cero." 

92. Scomberomorus regalis (Bloch). Kingfish; "Cero." (* t) 

Occurs in about same abundance and at same time as the foregoing species. 

TRICHIURID^!. The Cutlas-Fishes. 

93. Trichiurus lepturus Linna>us. Catlas-fish; Scabbard-fish. (*) 

A specimen 3 feet long was taken at Woods Hole iu 1874. A few stragglers have been taken in 
traps at Menemsha Bight during the last ten years, usually not more than one or two in a season; one 
that has been preserved was caught September 21, 1874. Chesapeake Bay appears to be the normal 
northern limit of its range, and is the limit assigned in recent lists. As early as 1840, however, the 
fish was taken in Buzzards Bay, and in 1845 was recorded from Welllleet. - 



'Natural History of Aquatic Animals. 2 See Storer, History of Massachusetts Fishes. 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 97 

ISTIOPHORID^. The Sail-Fishes. 

94. Istiophorus nigricans (Lacrpi'ilr i. Sailfish. (*) 

Rare. Taken only at Quisset Harbor, where during the past 25 years about half a dozen liave 
been caught in a trap; all were about 9 feet long. 

95. Tetrapterus imperator ( IJlocli iV Schneider). Spearfish. (*) 

Generally rare, but between 18X5 anil 1890 numbers were taken in the traps in Vineyard Sound 
and Buzzards Bay during duly and August. Most were caught in the trap farthest up Buzzards Bay 
at Quisset Harbor. 

XIPHIID^J. The Sword-Fishes. 

96. Xiphias gladius Linmeiis. " Swordfish." (*) 

Abundant, near Gayhead. Ivan- now in Vineyard Sound, but some time ago a number were taken 
there annually near Tarpaulin Gove. 

CARAN6ID51. The Pompanos, Crevalles, Amber-Fishes, Etc. 

97. Oligoplites saurus (Bloeh & Schneider). Leather-jacket. (*) 

Very rare. Only three instances of its occurrence known. In 1874 one specimen was caught in 
a trap at Menemsha; on August 13, 1875, another was taken, and in September, 1886, two or three 
specimens were taken in a pound net at the breakwater. Specimen in the Woods Hole collection, 
from Newport, Rhode Island, taken September 10, 1886. 

98. Naucrates ductor (Liumcus). "Pilot-fish." 

Recorded by Professor Baird in 1871. Not common in inshore waters. The banded rudder-fish 
(Seriola zonata) is usually mistaken for this species bj the fishermen. 

99. Seriola zonata (Mitchill). Shark-pilot; Rudder-fish; "Pilot-fish." (* t $) 

Common from July to October. Usually seen aronnd spiles, pound-net. stakes, vessels, and under 
floating seaweed. In July and August, 1897, was often met with in Vineyard Sound, under gulf-weed 
and eelgrass; also in Eel Pond, Great Harbor. Quisset Harbor, Hadley Harbor, and elsewhere. While 
the Grampus was moored at the Woods Hole pier in August, 1897, there was a school of "pilot-fish," 
6 to 7 inches long, beneath the bow and stern for several weeks, feeding chiefly on Menidia gracilis. 
They were very shy aud would not take the hook, but some were caught witli a dip net. This species 
is not distinguished by fishermen from Naucrates duclor. Examples as small as 11 inches in length 
are taken in summer. 

100. Seriola lalandi Cuvier & Valenciennes. Amber-fish. (* t J) 

Rare. An amber-fish, 2^ feet long, taken at Woods Hole September 10, 1895, is apparently 
referable to this species. Another, 3 feet 1 inch long, taken July 8, 1892, and several others, obtained 
at various times, have been preserved. 

101. Seriola dumerili (Risso). Amber-fish; Amber-jack, (t §) 

Rare. The Woods Hole collection contains three specimens, from 7| to 13 inches long, taken in 
August and September. 1 

102. Decapterus punctatus (Agassiz). Bound Robin; Scad; Cigar-fish. (* t) 

Reported by Professor Baird in 1871. Recently very rare and observed only in Quisset Harbor; 
taken there in 1886 and on only one or two other occasions. 

103. Decapterus macarellus (Cuvier &. Valenciennes). Mackerel Scad. (* t) 

Common every year iu fall, but not observed at other times. Comes in October aud remains about 
a month. In Great Harbor several hundred have been taken atone seine-haul. No full grown fish 
ever observed. Those taken are usually 5 inches long, none over 6 inches. In October, 1897, the 
lish was remarkably abundant in Vineyard Sound, some traps taking 10 barrels daily. 

104. Trachurops crumenophthalmus (Bloch). Goggler; Big-eyed Scad. (* t) 

Common every year iu fall, from about October 15 to November 15. All are 4 to 6 inches long. 

'See Rept, U. S. F. C. 1896, p. 172. 

F. C. B. 1897 7 



98 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION 

105. Caranx bartholomaei Cuvier & Valenciennes. Yellow-jack. (*t§) 

Very rare, but Las been obtained during four different years. Nine specimens about 6 inches long 
were taken in 1876; one 5| inches long was obtained November 10, 1885; another was caught in Great 
Harbor September 30 of the same year; one 2i inches long was seined August 10, 1886. On October 
6, 1897, one 4| inches long was caught in a fyke net in Great Harbor. 

106. Caranx hippos (Linnreus). "CrerulU" ; Jack. (* t) 

Common. First appear about July 1, and caught as long as the fish traps are set, being most 
numerous in October. No spawn found in them. Young an inch long are taken about July 1. Large 
examples occur in fall; they sometimes measure over '_' feet in length and weigh 12 to 14 pounds. 

107. Caranx crysos (Mitchill). "Yellow CrevalW ; Hardtail; Runner; Jurel. (* t) 

Arrives and departs about same time as foregoing. Young, 2 to 2A inches long, are caught in 
Buzzards Bay in summer. The largest arc about 15 inches long and weigh 2 to 3 pounds. 

108. Alectis ciliaris (Bloch). Cobbler-fish; Threadfish. CMS) 

Usually not common, but some years numerous. Found from June 15 until November 1, or later; 
taken in traps. Three to 8 inches long. 

109. Vomer setipinnis (Mitchill). Horsefish; "Dollar-fish." (* t) 

Common some years, rare others, in Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound. Usually more numerous 
than Selene vomer. It first appears in August and is found during that month and September. 

110. Selene vomer (Linmeus). Lookdown ; "Dollar-fish." (* t) 

Rare. A few are taken each year in traps and with the collecting seine, usually in September. 
First noticed here in 1885. 

111. Trachinotus falcatus (Linnreus). Round I'ompano. (t $) 

Y'oung very common; adults never observed. Fish half an inch to an inch long appear in July; 
by September 15, when they disappear, they are about 2 inches long. 

112. Trachinotus goodei Jordan & Evermann. Permit; Black-finned Pompano. (t $) 

Rare, and not observed every year. First obtained in 1894, when about a dozen specimens were 
seined on Nobska Beach, on September 18. In September, 1897, a number were caught at various 
places, in company with T. carolinus and T. falcatus. The specimens are all small — 3 inches or less in 
length. 

113. Trachinotus argenteus Cuvier <V Valenciennes. Silvery Pompano. 

Rare. On September 7, 1885, a specimen was taken at Woods Hole which was identified by 
Professor Baird as this species. 

114. Trachinotus carolinus (Linnreus). Common Pompano. (*t§) 

Adult fish rare, none having been observed for ten years. Young, from 2 to 4 inches long, com- 
mon, usually appearing between July 20 and August 1, and remaining till about cud of September. 

POMATOMIDiE. The Blue-Pishes. 

115. Pomatomus saltatrix (Linnreus). "Bluefish." (* t $) 

Common. Arrives about June 1 and remains till some time in November, being taken as late as 
the traps are operated. Most numerous in July and October. Young first appear early in July, being 
about 3 inches long. Fish from 3 to 6 inches long are often very abundant in the harbors, several 
hundred being taken at one haul of the collecting seine. Many of this size are caught with lines off 
the Fish Commission wharves. The largest are taken in fall; Borne weigh 14 to 16 pounds. Well- 
developed spawn is found in a small proportion of the bluefish when they first arrive, and at Nantucket 
large roes have been found as late as July 15. 

RACHYCENTRIDiE. The Sergeant-fishes. 

116. Rachycentron canadum (Linnreus). Cohia; Crab-eater. 

Rare. Not observed every year. All specimens recorded in this region have been taken in 
September in Buzzards Bay traps and have weighed 5 or 6 pounds. The fish appears to have been 
more common in the seventies than at present. 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 9!) 

NOMEID-Sl The Nomeids. 

117. Nomeus gronovii ( Gmeliu ) Portuguese Man-of-war-fish. (* t) 

First noticed in 1889, when specimens were taken in Vineyard Sound, on July 6, July 23, and 
August 12. Since then observed only in 1894, when there were many "Portuguese men-of-war " in 
Vineyard Sound. For several days in July there were often several dozen of the ''men-of-war" in 
sight at one time off Tarpaulin Cove, and under these the fish were numerous. Sometimes a dozen 
would be found under oue "man-of-war," and 21 were collected by the Commission ou July 31, all 
about 6 inches long. 

CORYPHiENIDiE. The Dolphins. 

118. Coryphaena hippurus Linnaeus. ■■Dolphin." (* t) 

Large specimens are very rare in Vineyard Sound, and none has been seen since about 1890. In 
past years some 3 feet long have been taken in traps at Menemsha. Young fish from 2 to 12 inches 
long are obtained nearly every year in the floating gulf- weed; four or five were secured in 1897 in 
Vineyard Sound, in July and August. 

CENTROLOPHIDiE. The Rudder-Fishes. 

119. Centrolophus niger (Oiuelin i. Blackfish; Black Ruff. (") 

A specimen of this southern European species was taken at Dennis, Mass., about 25 miles east of 
Woods Hole, on November 23. 1888. 

120. Palinurichthys perciformis (Mitt-hill). "Rudder-fish"; "Polefish." ( * t §) 

Common from last of .1 u ue to October. Observed in gulf-weed and other floating objects. As 
many as a hundred small and medium-sized fish may sometimes be found under a box. barrel, or tub. 
It is often seen around pound net poles and has received the name of "polefish" among the local fisher- 
men. The largest specimens are taken in traps at Menemsha, and are 15 or 16 inches long. 

STROMATEID.S3. The Butter-Fishes. 

121. Rhombus paru (Linna-us). Harvest-fish; " Long-finned Butter-fish." (t) 

Usually ran-, but occasionally common. As a rule only 3 or 4 are taken in a season, but one year 
300 or 400 were obtained. < >bserved mostly in Jane and July, in company with butter-fish, 

122. Rhombus triacanthus (Peck). "Butter-fish." ( t J) 

Abundant. There is a noteworthy run in June, mixed with the scup. In 1896 and 1897, as many 
as 60 barn-Is were taken from a trap at Nanshon at one lift; 30 barrels shipped from this trap to New 
York in 1897 yielded the fishermen only two 2-cent stamps! This run lasts only 1 or 2 weeks, but the 
fish is taken from early summer to late fall. Spawning occurs in June. The butter-fish is often seen 
swimming under jelly-fish. 

TETRAGONURID.SI. The Square-Tails. 

123. Tetragonurus cuvieri Risso. Square-tail; Sea-raven. (*) 
One specimen obtained at Woods Hole November 10, 1890. 

SERRANIDiE. The Sea Basses. 

124. Roccus lineatus (Block). " Striped Bass"; Rockfish. (' t) 

Not common. Arrives about Ma\ 1, and leaves about November 1. Most numerous in June. 
Apparently does not spawn in this section. Smallest weigh half a pound; largest 65 pounds. 

125. Morone americana (Gmelin). '• White Pirih." (* t $) 

Abundant in fresh-water ponds of the region connected with salt water. Spawns in ponds in May 
and June. In October specimens from 8 to 15 inches long are taken in nets in Buzzards Bay and 
Vineyard Sound. 

126. Epinephelus niveatus (Cuvier & Valenciennes). Snowy Grouper, (t §) 

Not rare. First reported in 1895, when as many as 10 or 12 specimens were obtained in the Woods 
Hole region. 1 In 1897 several others were taken in summer and fall; one was caught August 7 in a 
dredge in Vineyard Sound in 6 fathoms of water and in November several were taken in a fyke net in 
Great Harbor. All have been of small size (3 inches or less), and most of them have been brought 
up in lobster pots. A number have also been secured in Rhode Island waters. 

'SeeRept. U. S. F. C. 1894, p. 171. 



1U0 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 

127. Ceutropristes striatus (Linnaeus). "Sea Bass''; "Black Bass." (* t $) 

Verj common. Arrives in May, and departs from the inshore waters about October 1, being most 
abundant July to September. Spawns in June. Young are first seen about August 1. Maximum 
weight (> pounds. A very important and excellent food-fish, taken in large numbers on lines for 
market and sport. 

LOBOTIDiE. The Triple-Tails. 

128. Lobotes surinamensis (Bloch). Flasher; Triple-tail. (* t) 

Very rare. Given by Professor Baird in his 1871 list. Since then the fish has been met with on 
only a few occasions. Specimens now preserved in Washington were taken in August, 1873, and 
December, 1875. On September 20, 1886, a specimen 2 feet long was taken in a trap at Menemsha, and 
in August, 1890, another thus caught was sent to Washington. 

PRIACANTHIDiE. Catalufas. 

129. Priacanthus arenatus Cuvier A- Valenciennes. Catalufa; Short Big-eye. (* t) 

Rare. First taken in 1876. when 7 specimens were obtained in September and October, after 
which time for several years 3 or 4 were caught annually. The last specimen, 3| inches long, was 
taken October 2, 1888, in a seine at Quisset Harbor. 

130. Pseudopriacanthus altus (Gill). Big-eye. (* t) 

Rare. The local collection contains 2 specimens, lj^ inches long, taken November 28, 1885. 
Examples in the National Museum were obtained September 29, L875, and September 26, 1877. There 
ha \ e been several other known occurrences of the fish in this section ; it is also recorded from Marble- 
bead, Mass., by Storer (Fishes of Massachusetts, 1867). On November 1, 1890, a specimen was taken 
in the Acushnet River at New Bedford. The type of the species was from Xarragansett Bay, R. I. 

LUTIANIDJE. The Snappers. 

This family of tropical and subtropical fishes is represented in the Woods Hole collection by an 
unexpectedly large number of species, some of which were taken lor the first time in the fall of ISHT. 
Several large snappers have been taken in traps from time to time, but they can not be identified with 
certainty, as they were not preserved. On September 28, 1894, a snapper weighing 25 pounds, similar 
in general appearance to the gray snapper (Neomauiis griseus), was taken in a trap in Buzzards Bay. It 
was seen by a number of persons from the Fisli Commission station. In 1806 a fish of the same species 
was caught at Newport. 

131. Neomaenis griseus (Linnaeus). Gray Snapper: Mangrovt Snapper. (§) 

Two obtained in the fall of 1807, one 2} inches long in Eel Pond, September 21. and one 2 inches 
long in Great Harbor, September 26. Not previously detected and apparently only a waif. 

132. Neomaenis jocu (Bloch &. Schneider). Dog Snapper. («) 

Apparently only a straggler. One specimen, 2+ inches long, taken in Eel Pond September 21. 1S07. 

133. Neomaenis apodus (Walbaum). Schoolmaster. (§) 

A rare straggler. The collection contains one specimen, Hi inches long, taken aii Woods Hole 
September 20, 1888. 

134. Neomaenis aya (Bloch). Bed Snapper, (t) 

A very rare straggler, taken on only one occasion. On October 10, 1890, a specimen weighing 
8A pounds was caught in a trap at Menemsha; this is preserved in the collection at Woods Hole. 

135. Neomaenis analis (Cuvier & Valenciennes). Mutton-fish. (" t) 

In 1897 two specimens were taken: one li inches long in Quisset Harbor, August 11. and one 2i 
inches long in the same locality September 4. Seven specimens of similar size in the National 
Museum were taken at Woods Hole in 1876. 

SPARID-Sl. The Porgies. 

136. Stenotomus chrysops CLinnxus). "Snip"; Porgy; Souppaug. (* t §) 

Very common. Appears about May 1 and leaves about October 15 or 20, being most abundant in 
June and .Inly. Spawning occurs during first part of June, and young 4 inch to J inch long are 
observed by the middle of July. The largest taken weigh about 3 pounds. 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLF 101 

137. Lagodon rhomboides (Linnaeus). Sailor's Choice; Pinfish; "Shiny Scup." (*ti) 
Not common. A few are usually takeu each season from July to September. 

138. Arcliosargus probatocephalus (Walliauni). Sheepshead. (" t) 

Very uncommon of late, not one having Keen seen or heard of in Vineyard Sound or Buzzards Bay 
in past four or five years. Formerly quite common, often being caught while line-fishing for tautog 
and scup. Maximum weight about 3 pounds; smallest 8 or 9 inches long. 

GERRIDiE. The Mojarras. 

139. Eucinostomus gula i Cuvier A Valenciennes). Irish Pompano. ( t«) 

Usually very uncommon. In 1SH7, whin apparently this fish was more common than in any pre- 
vious year, 5 specimens wire taken at one seine-haul in Quisset Harbor on August 14, 2 in the same 
locality September 7, and another in Eel Pond on September 23; all of these were 1 to 2 inches long. 
On October 5 the fish was numerous at Quisset Harbor. 

KYPHOSIDiE. The Rudder-Fishes. 

140. Kyphosus sectatrix ( Linmens i. Rudder-fish; Bermuda Chub. (* t $) 

Not rare in summer and fall, occasionally found in spring (April): sometimes taken among gulf- 
weed at surface. Specimens usually small, largest about 6 inches. 

SCIiENIDiE. The Drums. 

141. Cyuoscion regalis (Bloch & Schneider). Wedkfish; " Squeteague." (* t) 

Usually abundant. Comes about June 1, and leaves October 1 to 10. This is the principal fish 
taken in traps in Vineyard Sound, the catch in 1896 being over 100,000 pounds. In .Inly, 1897, a 
school of several hundred followed young herring into the basins at the Fish Commission station 
and remained there for several days; many weighing 4 to 5 pounds were taken at night with short 
lines, baited with herring, rapidly drawn in on the surface after having been thrown out a few yards. 
Young fish as small as 14 inches long are taken about July 1 at the head of Buzzards Bay. Spawning 
occurs about June 1, some of the fish having ripe spawn when they arrive. The average weight is 4 
pounds; 8 pounds is usually the maximum weight iu a season, but in L897 a Bqueteague weighing 14 
pounds was obtained at t'uttyhunk. 

142. Larimus fasciatus Holbrook. Banded Drum, (t) 

A very rare straggler, taken on only one occasion. On August 13, 1889, a specimen 8 inches long 
was caught in a trap at the breakwater, Buzzards Bay. 

143. Sciaenops ocellatus (Linnaeus). Hut I hum: Channel Bass; Sedfish. (t) 

Only one fish of this species is known to have been taken in this region. This was caught in 1894 
in a trap in Buzzards Bay at the breakwater. The specimen, now in the Woods Hole collection, is 2 
feet 10 inches long and weighs about 14 pounds. 

144. Leiostomus xanthurus (Lacepiilei. Spot; llnnihi. (* t) 

Common in fall, being observed during whole of October. When water temperature reaches 45° F. 
the fish leaves. All specimens are about 6 inches long. 

145. Micropogon undulatus (Linnaeus). Croaker, (t) 

On September 9, 1893, a specimen 15 inches long was taken in a trap at the breakwater in Buzzards 
Bay. This is the only known occurrence of the fish in this vicinity. 

146. Menticirrhus saxatilis (Bloch & Schneider). "Kingfish"; Sea-mink. (* t $) 

Adults full of spawn arc common in June; uncommon after July 15. Fish about an inch long 
appear in the middle of July, and tho young are numerous on sandy beaches during the summer and 
until early part of October, when they leave, having attained a length of 4 or 5 inches. Some of the 
young are almost entirely black, while others of same size taken at the same time show the color 
markings of the adults. The maximum weight is about 2 pounds. 

147. Pogonias cromis (Linnn»ns). Drum, (t; 

Very rare. First taken May 7. 1S74, and observed only 3 or 4 times since. The recent specimens 
have been taken in traps at Quisset Harbor, in the latter part of September or early iu October. All 
were of one size, weighing 4.V or f> pounds. 



102 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 

LABRIDiE. The Wrasse-Fishes. 

148. Tautogolabrus adspersus (Walbaum). "dinner"; "Chogset." (" t y) 

Very abundant. Remains in eelgrass in winter and thousands perish from cold every year. Large 
numbers of euuners of all sizes are found under wharves and around piers in warmer months. Spawn- 
ing takes place in June. By August 1 the young, an inch long, are observed. In the bays and harbors 
the maximum weight is about a pound, but outside of Gayhead and Cuttyhunk they reach a weight 
of 2A pounds. The usual weight is one-quarter to one-half a pound. 

149. Tautoga onitis (Linna-us). "Tautog"; "Blaekfish." (* t §) 

Abundant everywhere on rocky bottom, remaining throughout the year. In winter they seek 
deep water or the eelgrass; many are killed each year by anchor ice. Spawns in June and July. 
Young appear about 1st of August. Average weight 3 pounds, but 12-pound fish are common, and 
some weigh 16 pounds. Many are caught on lines by anglers and professional fishermen, and some 
are also taken in traps in April. Lobster is the most attractive bait. Judging from the behavior of 
tautog in aquaria, it must be one of the greatest enemies of both large and small lobsters; it readily 
attacks full-grown lobsters, first biting off their eyes by rapid darts, and then consuming them. The 
fish continues to bite at the hook until snow falls, usually about November 15 or 20. 

EPHIPPID^!. The Angel-Fishes. 

150. Chsetodipterus faber (Broussonct). MoonfisU ; Angel-fish.; Spadefish. (* t) 

A very rare straggler. First taken in 1889, when one specimen was obtained. Since then only 
three have been observed. All were caught in traps at Menemsha in August and September. The 
fish are all of one size, having a length of 16 to 18 inches. Not known to fishermen. 

CHJETODONTID-53. The Butterfly-Fishes. 

151. Chsetodon ocellatus Bloch. Parohe. (" + $1 

A few specimens are taken nearly every year in October and November, when seining in eelgrass. 
Three is the largest number caught at one haul of the net. and five the largest number in one season. 

152. Chaetodon bricei, new species. 

Three specimens of an undescribed species of Chcetodon were seined in the vicinity of Woods Hole 
in 1897. One was obtained August 3 in Quisset Harbor, another August 10 in Eel Pond, and the third 
October 7 in Quisset Harbor; all are under L} inches in length. These examples were undoubtedly 
stragglers from the West Indies, whence they were transferred in the Gulf Stream. The species is 
readily distinguished by two prominent ocelli situated posteriorly, and is one of the most strikingly 
beautiful members of a large family of peculiarly marked and brilliantly colored fishes of the tropical 
seas. It is named for Hon. John J. Brice, United States Commissioner of Fish and Fisheries. 

Description. — Body short, deep, much compressed, its depth contained It times in length. 
Profile steep, slightly convex. Head rather large, pointed, its length rather less than a third of the 
body length. Mouth small, terminal; snout not produced, five-sixth-, length of eye. Eye large, its 
length contained 2f times in head. Lateral line beginning at posterior edge of eye, curving 
upward and backward, and terminating under anterior part of soft dorsal fin. Scales large; number 
in median line of body 40; number in transverse series between front of dorsal and base of ventral 
23, 6 being above the lateral line; rows of scales above longitudinal axis of body directed upward 
and backward, those below inclined slightly downward. Caudal peduncle very short, about as 
broad as eye. Dorsal long, elevated, with 13 spines and 20 rays, the longest spine six-sevenths length 
of head; soft dorsal evenly rounded; basal half of both portions of tin thickly covered with small 
scales; dorsal origin opposite posterior edge of opercle. Anal tin deep, long, rounded, containing 3 
spines and 18 rays; the proximal two-thirds of soft portion densely sqoaiu.ited, the small scales also 
covering the bases of the second and third spines. Caudal short, rounded. Pectorals two-thirds 
length of head, rounded. Ventrals as long as pectorals, pointed. 

Colors in life: General body color, pearly gray. A glistening jet black band about two-fifths 
width of eye, and having a forward curve, begius a short distance in front of dorsal and extends 
downward through eye and thence downward and backward to lower margin of gill opening; this 
does not extend on the breast, and hence does not meet its fellow of the opposite side ; above eye this 
stripe is bordered on each side by a very narrow pale streak. A dull blackish band, li, times as wide 
as eye, runs \ ertically across body from base of dorsal to median line of abdomen; the anterior border 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 



103 



of this band extends from front of dorsal to posterior angle of opercle, thence obliquely downward 
and backward behind base of pectoral. Behind this baud and separated from it by a space somewhat 
"wider than eye is another dark band; it is duller and two-thirds wider than the foregoing, with its 
anterior edge curved forward and its posterior margin on the caudal peduncle. Involving about two- 
thirds the width of this band and extending from the dorsal to the ventral edge of the body is a large, 
circular ocellus, more than 1J- times the size of eye, consistiug of a dark-blue spot surrounded by a 
narrow white zone, which covers a part of the base of the soft dorsal. Immediately above this and 
within the extension on the dorsal (in of the dark band is another similar but smaller ocellus, about 
the size of eye, involving the firsts or 9 rays of the soft dorsal. A narrow, dark-brown, vertical bar 
on caudal peduncle is separated from the base of the caudal rays and from that part of the broad body 
band posterior to the ocellus by narrow white spaces. Head in front of ocular stripes, and breast 
greenish yellow. A black cresceutic mark on opercle. Spinous dorsal dusky, the dark vertical band 
extending on the first 7 spines. Soft dorsal dark, with sharply defined pale edge. Part of anal 
covered by scales dusky, with a narrow darker margin; unsealed portion yellowish white, (.'audal 
and pectorals pale, ventrals dusky, edged with yellow. 




Chcetodon bricei II. M. Smith. 

The foregoing description applies especially to the largest specimen, taken October 7 ; the others 
differ from it only in having darker dorsal, anal, and ventral fins, and minor variations in the dorsal 
and anal rays. 

153. Chaetodon striatus Linmeus. Portuguese Butterfly. (<J) 

Taken on only one occasion. On October 29, 1894, a specimen lj inches long was caught in a 
seine in Great Harbor. 

BALISTID.SJ. The Trigger-Fishes. 

154. Balistes vetula Liunaus. Trigger-fish; Leather-jacket. (* t §) 

Every season, mostly in September, adult specimens of this fish are taken in some numbers in the 
traps at Menemsha. Duriug summer and fall the young, 1J or 2 inches long, are found at the surface 
in Vineyard Sound in gulf-weed and also around the shores. 



104 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 

155. Balistes carolinensis Guieliu. Trigger-fish; Leather-jacket, (t §) 
Very rare; not taken every year. Youug not observed. 

156. Canthidermis asperrimus (Cope). Sobitco. (§) 

A specimen of Canthidermis taken in the summer of 1897 is identified as Balistes asperrimus of Cope, 
the type of which, belonging to the Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences, has been examined. 
The type is 3 inches long and is labeled "Darien" (Isthmus of Panama); no other specimens are 
known, unless this fish should prove to be the young of Poey's Balistes sohaeo from the West Indies. 
The Woods Hole example is If inches long, and was obtained July 24, 1897, under a small piece of 
floating gulf-weed in Vineyard Sound off Great Harbor. 

MONA.CANTHIDiE. The File-Fishes. 

157. Monacanthus hispidus (Linnaeus). Foolfish; Filefish. (* t ft) 

Present every year; some years rather scarce, some years abundant. In 1897 it was extremely 
numerous in July and August, aud several hundred wen' often taken in one day in the collecting seine. 
May often be obtained under gulf- weed, but usually most plentiful in eelgrass and rockweed. No 
large fish are observed; the maximum size is under 4 inches, and the smallest is 1 inch. The smallest 
filefish are rather uniformly dull brownish or greenish yellow in color, but those 3 or 4 inches long are 
mottled with white aud several shades of dark greeu. In aquaria, small filefish often annoy and 
injure other fish, following them with great persistency and biting their fins, eyes, aud other parts. 
Fish many times larger than themselves are sometimes the object of their attack. 

158. Alutera schcepfii (Walbaum). Foolfish; ••Filefish." (* t §) 

Rather common every year in August and September. The largest are 18 inches long, the smallest 
3 inches. The position constantly assumed in the aquarium is with the head down. Succulent 
algic are often eaten by the fish in captivity, the long branches of some species being bitten off and 
swallowed in a surprisingly short time. The color of the young is a dirty white, with large reddish- 
brown mottlings or blotches; the larger are orange-colored with same mottlings as when young. 

OSTRACIID53. The Trunk-Fishes. 

159. Lactophrys trigonus (Linnseus). Trunkfish; Shellfish. (* §) 

Adult trunkfish have not been observed in this vicinity, but the very young are not uncommon 
and are taken every year. They are found from July to October. On quiet days they are seeu, singly 
or in scattered bodies, in the eelgrass about the wharves. The largest specimens in the collection are 
1 inch long, aud the smallest one-fourth inch. They are taken under the gulf-weed, in surface tow 
nets and iu shore seines. Several dozen have been obtained at one seine-haul. 

TETRAODONTID-S!. The Puffers. 

160. Lagocephalus laevigatus (Linnosus). Smooth Puffer; "Puffer." (*t) 

Not very common. Perhaps half a dozen are taken each year in (raps in Ruzzards Bay and 
Vineyard Sound, mostly in September and October. All are about 11 or 12 inches long, small ones 
never being observed. 

161. Spheroides maculatus (Bloch A Schneider). Swellfish; "Puffer." (t$) 

Appears about first of June, and is abundant during the run of scop; many caught in traps at that 
time. Common throughout the summer at head of Buzzards Bay, but rare at Woods Hole during that 
season. Leaves in fall as soon as cold weather sets in. The spawning season is June 1 to 10. The 
largest are 7 inches in length, but the average size is 5 inches. From about July 1 to October 15 
the young, from ). inch to 1 inch long, are extremely abundant at Woods Hole, frequenting chiefly 
sandy beaches, where as many as a hundred are often taken in one seine-haul. 

162. Spheroides spengleri (ISIoeh). Southern Puffer ; Swelltoad. (') 

Very rare. A number of small specimens taken in September and October, 1877; not recently 
detected. 

DIODONTIDiE. The Porcupine-Fishes. 

163. Diodon hystrix Linnaeus. Porcupine-fish, (i) 

\ very rare straggler, being taken only once. On Aug.ust 12, 1895, a specimen, 94 inches long, 
was obtained in Buzzards Bay near the station. 1 



' See Kept. U. S. P. ('. 1896, p. 173. 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 105 

164. Chilomycterus schoepfi (Walbauni). Swell-toad; "Puffer"; "Porcupine-fish." (*t) 

Rare, and of irregular occurrence. Some years a few are taken in almost every trap in the vicinity, 
then none will be caught for several years. The latter part of September ami the early part of October 
are the periods when this tish is observed. The specimens taken are from 2k to 5 inches long. 

MOLIDiE. The Head-Fishes. 

165. Mola mola (Linnaeus). Simfish. 

Much rarer now than formerly. In the early years of the Commission 8 or 10 specimens 'were 
observed annually in Vineyard Sound, but of late there is seldom more than one seen in a season. In 
1896 a 400-pound tish was seen oft' Tarpaulin Cove. In 1887 a 200-pound specimen, caught oft' Great 
Harbor, was retained alive at the station for about a week. August is the month when the sunfish is 
usually found in these waters. A number that have been opened by Mr. Edwards contained only 
ctenophorcs and medusaj. 

SCORPiENID.53. The Rock-Fishes. 

166. Sebastes marinus (Linnieusl. Hum fish; Red Perch; Bream: Norway Haddock. (* t) 
Obtained in the Woods Hole region on only one occasion. On December 20, 1895, in Great Har- 
bor, 7 or 8 specimens. 3 inches long, were found in a bole on a flat, where they had been left by the 
tide; 4 or 5 of these had been stranded and were dead; the others were alive, and are now preserved 
in the collection. Taken in deep water as far south as New Jersey, but not previously recorded from 
inshore waters south of Maine. Fishermen claim that they sometimes catch these lish in traps very 
late in fall at l'rovincetown. 

COTTIDiE. The Sculpins. 

167. Acauthocottus aeneus (Mitchill). Little Sculpin ; Grubby. (* t §) 

Very common. Remains during entire year, and is the only sculpin found during summer. In 
winter from 10 to 50 are caught daily in fyke nets set in harbor. The lish is then in a spawning 
condition, and the eggs adhere to the twine. The maximum size of the iish is 5 inches. 

168. Acanthocottus octodecimspinosus (Mitchill). Eighteen-spined Sculpin ; "Sculpin." (*t) 
First appear about October 1, become very abundant by October 15, and remain until December 

or January. The spawning time is November and December; the eggs often come ashore by bucket- 
fuls on Nobska Beach. 

169. Acanthocottus grcenlandicus (Cuvier A Valenciennes). Daddy Sculpin; "Sculpin." (* t) 
The foregoing remarks apply equally well to this species. 

170. Hemitripterus americanus (Gmelin). Sea-raven; "Bed Sculpin." (* t) 

Common in October and November. Usual length about 16 inches. Young are rarely seen. 

CYCLOPTERIDiE. The Lump-Suckers. 

171. Cyclopterus lumpus Liumens. "Lumpfish." (* t $) 

Adults common in April; a few in May. Young are taken throughout the summer in Vineyard 
Sound among driftweed. Spawning occurs in April. 

LIPAftlDIDiE. The Sea-Snails. 

172. Neoliparis montagui (Donovan). Sea-snail. (*) 

Apparently not common in the shallow waters reached by the collecting seine. No specimens in 
local collection. 

173. Liparis liparis (Cuvieri. Sea-snail; "Sucker." (* t) 

Common in the winter on rocky bottom. Found full of spawn in December and January. 

GOBIIDiE. The Gobies. 

174. Gobiosoma bosci (Laccpcde). Goby. (* t) 

Common in Buzzards Bay. Taken in seine at Quisset Harbor throughout the summer. 

BATRACHOIDID.S3. The Toad-Fishes. 

175. Opsanus tau (Linmrus). " Toadfish"; " Toad-yrttnUr." (* t) 

Common under stones in ponds and harbors. Spawns in Juue, the eggs being attached to the 
under side of stones. Maximum weight about a pound. 



106 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 

xiPHiDiiD-a:. 

176. Pholis gunnellus (Linmeus). Butter fish ; "Bock Eel." (* t) 

Abundant around shores in March and April, but rave at other times. May lie taken in Vineyard 
Sound with a dredge at almost any season at a depth of 4 or 5 fathoms. Largest about 7 or 8 inches. 
Seined only on gravelly bottom. 

CRYFTACANTHODIDiE. The Wrymouths. 

177. Cryptacanthodes maculatus Storer. Wrymouih; Ghost fish. (* i) 

Very rare. On December 18, 1896, one 18 inches long was caught at Woods Hole in a fyke set in 
Great Harbor. 1 A specimen in the National Museum from Woods Hole was taken about 1875. 

ANARHICHAB-ID.53. The Wolf-Fishes. 

178- Anarhichas lupus Linna-us. Wolf-fish; " Catfish." (t) 

Quite rare. Taken in Vineyard Sound late in fall in traps and also on lines lished for cod. 

ZOARCIDiE. 

179. Zoarces anguillaris (Peck). Eel-pout; " Sea Eel." (* t) 

Abundant in fall, off Gay I lead and Cuttyhunk ; caught while line fishing for cod. on rock bottom, 
and occasionally late in fall in Vineyard Sound off Great Harbor on lines baited for tautog. 

180. Lycodes reticulatus Reinhardt. Eel-pout. (*) 

This northern species has occasionally been taken in southern New England. The National Museum 
contains specimens obtained by the Fish Hau-k in Vineyard Sound and Narragansett Bay. 

TRIG-LIDiE. The Gurnards. 

181. Prionotus carolinus (Linna?us). Common Gurnard: "Sea-robin." (*t) 

Appears in May or June and remains until October or later. More abundant thau P. strigatus. 
Begins to spawn early in .Tunc. Young are very common in Waquoit Bay in summer, but are rather 
rare elsewhere. This species attains only a third of the maximum weight of the striped gurnard. 

182. Prionotus strigatus (Cuvier & Valenciennes).' Sea-robin; "Sed Sculpin." (* t) 

Comes in June, somewhat later than P. carolinus. It is then rather abundant, but is less common 
at other times. Spa'wns in summer. Young, finch long and upward, are very common throughout 
summer: by fall they have reached a length of 1 inches. This species attains alcngth of 18 inches in 
the Woods Hole region. 

CEPHALACANTHID^J. The Flying Gurnards. 

183. Cephalacanthus volitans (Linna-us). Flying-robin ; "Flying Gurnard." (* t) 

A few are taken every year late in the fall. They sometimes come ashore in Buzzards Bay and 
Vineyard Sound benumbed by cold. Not so abundant now as they were prior to ten years ago. 

ECHENEIDID-SJ. The Remoras. 

184. Echeneis naucrates Linmeus. Shark Suclcer ; Eemora. (* t) 

Not uncommon. One If feet long was caught at West Falmouth, July 16, 1897, on a hook baited 
with fresh clam. 

185. Echeneis naucrateoides Zuieuw. Sinker. (*) 

Given by Professor Bairdiu 1871, and a number taken during next ten years. Not recently detected. 

186. Remora remora (Linmeus). Bemora. (* t) 

Rare. Reported by Professor Baird in 1871. Specimen in collection taken in July. Usually 
attached to large sharks. 

187. Remora brachyptera (Lowe). Swordjish Suclcer. (~) Rare. 

188. Rhombochirus osteochir (Cuvien. Spearfish Eemora. (* t) 

Rare. Recorded by Professor Baird in 1871. A specimen was taken August 6, 1886. in a fish-trap 
at Quisset Harbor. 

'See Rept. U. S. F. C. 1896, p. 176. 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY' OF WOODS HOLE. 107 

MERLUCCIIDiE. The Hakes. 

189. Merluccius bilinearis (Mitchill). Silver Hake; Whiting; "Froatfiah." (» t) 

Abundant every fall; some years common in summer. The fish swims close to the shore, and is 
caught in considerable numbers in Buzzards Bay at night with spears, for home use and sale in New 
Bedford. The weight of those thus taken is about a pound, but those caught in traps usually weigh 
5 or 6 pounds. Young specimens, 2i to 3 inches long, are seined in fall about Woods Hole. 

GADIDiE. The Cods. 

190. Pollachius virens (Linn.eus). "Pollock." (*t) 

Adult fish appear in Vineyard Sound and Great Harbor in May, following the run of cod. They 
depart when temperature of water reaches 60 or ii"> . There is no regular fishing with lines, but 
many are caught in traps at Menemsha. Fyke nets set in the harbor take pollock 7 or 8 inches long 
in February and .March. In April there is a run of fish 1 to 1,1 inches long; by June these have 
attained a length of 4 inches. The tish leave in June. In fall there is a small run of fish 7 or 8 inches 
long. Average weight of adults about 10 pounds, the maximum being 11 pounds. 

191. Microgadus tomcod (Walbaum). Tomood; "Froatfiah." (* t) 

Abundant in winter, coming about October 1 and remaining till May 1. Spawns in December. 
Many are caught in fykes and sent to the markets. 

192. Gadus callarias Linnaeus. "Cod." (* t) 

Appears in Vineyard Sound about April 1 and remains till about May 15, or till the dogfish strike 
on. When the lish first come they feed chiefly on worms, and are known among the fishermen as the 
"worm school"; later they feed on herring, lants, and crabs, and are known as the "herring school." 
After the middle of October the cod come again, but in less numbers than in spring, and remain until 
the first wintry weather. Yonng cod are first observed about the 1st of April, when fish about 1 inch 
long are seined. Most of the young leave by June 15, having attained a length of 3 to 4 inches. No 
cod are seen between fish of that size and those weighing 1! to 2 pounds caught in traps in sprint;. 
There is now but little line fishing for cod in Vineyard Sound, although there is some oft' Gay Head. 

193. Melanogrammus aeglifmus (Linnaeus). "Haddock." (* t) 

Not detected in Vineyard Sound or Buzzards Bay, but common 6 or 7 miles off Gay Head and on 
ocean side of .Marthas Vineyard. Reported by Professor Baird in 1871. 

194. Phycis regius (Walbaum). Codling; King Sake. (* t) 

Rare. Taken in seine only late in fall. Varies in length from 7 to 12 inches. 

195. Phycis tenuis (Mitchill). Squirrel Hake; White Hake; "Hake." i ,) 

Fish weighing 1 to 11 pounds abundant in ( Ictober and November. A great many then enter Eel 
Pond. Young fish, 1 inch long and upward, associate with pollock in spring and are also found 
throughout the summer in considerable numbers. They are often obtained in summer at the surface, 
under gulf-weed and eelgrass, 

196. Phycis chuss (Walbaum). "Hake." (* t) 

Abundant in May and June and in October and November. They fill the traps and cause fisher- 
men much annoyance, as there is no sale for them. They weigh from 2 to 5 pounds. 

197. Rhinonemus cimbrius (, Linnnois). Four-bearded JRoekling. (* t) 

A rare visitor, found only in winter. Once taken in a fyke net iu Great Harbor. 

198. Brosmius brosme ( Miiller). Cuak; "Ling." (' t) 

Formerly not uncommon in Vineyard Sound, and caught with cod in April and May. Very rare 
for twenty years or more, although a few are still taken in April. Average weight is 5 pounds; 
maximum, 12 or 13 pounds. 

MACRURID5!. The Grenadiers. 

199. Macrourus bairdii Goode A Bean. Baird' a Grenadier. (*) 

Very rare. Obtained once in Vineyard Sound by the Fish Hawk at a depth of 9 fathoms, on 
August 26, 1882. 



108 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 

PLEURONECTIDJE The Flounders. 

200. Hippoglossus hippoglossus I Linna-us). "Halibut." (*) 

Formerly not very uncommon in Vineyard Sound, but now very rare. Last taken about ten years 
ago, when one weighing about 80 pounds was caught. Between ten and twenty-five years ago, 
during April, a number of large-sized halibut were taken annually while fishing for cod oft' Creat 
Harbor and elsewhere in the sound. In 1872 or 1873 Mr. Edwards caught a number weighing 235 or 
240 pounds. 

201. Hippoglossoides platessoides (Fabricius). Sand-dab; Uoujgh-dab; Rusty Flounder. (*) 

Not common. Found some years in winter in the inshore waters adjacent to W Is Hole; speci- 
mens have been taken in February on lines. One year some were caught in a fyke net in Great 
Harbor. 

202. Paralichthys dentatus (Linna'us). Summit- Flounder; "Flounder." (* t) 

Found from about May 10 to October 15. More abundant during summer than the flatfish. Fre- 
quents sandy bottoms. Average weight, 21 pounds; maximum, 20 pounds. The largest are taken in 
the traps. 

203. Paralichthys oblongus (Mitchill). Four-spotted Flounder; "Flounder." (* t) 

Common in May and June; scarce at other times. Most abundant about June 1, during the run 
of Bcup, when many arc- caught in traps. Young fish are rarely observed, but in the fall of 1885 or 
1886 large numbers, 2 or 3 inches long, were seined. Average length. 12 inches. The fish spawns in 
May and its eggs have been experimentally hatched at Woods Hole. The eggs are buoyant, ./,,- of 
an inch in diameter, and hatch in 8 days in water having a mean temperature of 51° to 50° V. 

204. Bothus maculatus (Mitchill). "Sand-dab"; "Window-pane." (* t) 

Found from April to late in autumn. There is quite a 1 irge run about June 1, when the fish is 
with spawn. The average size is 10 or 12 inches. In the experimental hatching of the eggs of this 
fish at Woods Hole it has been found that the eggs are buoyant, nonadhesive, and 5 ' 4 of an inch in 
diameter, and that they hatch in eight days when the mean water temperature is 51- to 56 u F. 

205. Limanda ferruginea (Storer). "Busty Flatfish." (* t) 

Very common in Vineyard Sound and Buzzards Bay, in water 10 to 12 fathoms deep, where it may 
be found throughout the year. There is no fishery, but numbers are caught incidentally while bottom 
fishing for other species. Iu Great Harbor a few are taken in tyke nets only in winter. The average 
length is about 14 inches. 

206. Pseudopleuronectes americanus (Walbaum). "Flatfish"; "Winter Flounder"; "Pug." (* t) 

A very abundant permanent resident. Frequents nimbly or grassy bottom. Some are either 
wholly or partly blackish on the nude side, this condition being more prevalent some winters than 
others. The average weight of those taken in the immediate \ icinity of the station is only 1 pound, 
lint larger examples are found in the deeper water of the sound and bay. In October fish averaging 2 
pounds, and apparently slowly migrating, are taken with lines in Vineyard Sound on sandy bottom; 
these are called "pugs" by the fishermen, and the fishery is called •'pugging." 

This fish spawns from February to April in this region and its artificial cultivation is extensively 
carried on. Spawning fish are Aery abundant and are caught with fyke nets on hard clay bottom in 
water C to 15 feet deep. On being transferred to tanks containing running water, many deposit their 
eggs voluntarily during the night. The eggs are ^ of an inch in diameter, and when first extruded 
are very glutinous, sticking together in masses of various sizes. The average number of eggs to 
a fish is 500,000. On March b\ 1897, 1,102,000 eggs, or 30 fluid ounces, were taken from a fish that 
weighed 34 pounds after spawning. The eggs hatch in 17 or 18 days when the mean water tempera- 
ture is 37° or 38 F. 

SOLEIDiE The Soles. 

207. Achirus fasciatus Lacepede. Sole; Hog-choker; " Black Flatfish." (* t) 

A few are taken every year in the- traps in Vineyard Sound. It is abundant iu Wareham River, 
at the head of Buzzards Bay; sonic arc found in YVaquoit Bay and a few are taken iu Great Harbor. 
It is present throughout the year. In allusion to the dark underparts the fishermen call it the " black 
flatfish." 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 109 

LOPHIIDiE. The Fishing-Frogs. 

208. Lophius piscatorius Linnaeus. Goosefish; Angler; Fiahing-frog; " ToaAfiah." ("t) 

Abundant in Vineyard Sound, usually from April 1 to July 1, some seasons from April to November 
or as late as the traps are set. The spawn is often found floating in Vineyard Sound. The traps often 
take boatloads of them which are. carried ashore and put on the land, no other use being made of 
them, although the llesh is considered very palatable. Those caught in traps are from 4 inches to 4 
feet long. The young keep offshore in deep water and are never taken in the seine. 

ANTBNNARIID2E. 

209i Pterophryne histrio (Linnaeus). Marbled Angler. (* t $) 

This fish is to be regarded as a straggler from the tropics, whence it comes in the Gulf Stream 
and is drifted ashore in gulf-weed. It was first taken in 1877. 1 In November, 1885, 12 specimens were 
seined in Quisset Harbor. From that year until 1897 none was observed, although the gulf-weed was 
systematically examined. In 1897 this lish was comparatively common in Vineyard Sound. During 
July there was an unusual prevalence of southerly winds ami a large quantity of sargasso-weed was 
blown inshore from the Gulf Stream, and with it the marbled angler. During the forenoon of July 21. 
22 specimens were taken in a boat from the Fish Commission station with small dip nets, among the 
gulf-weed in Vineyard Sound, a few miles from Woods Hole, and (in the same day 28 specimens were 
secured by a steamer of the Marine Biological Association. Stragglers continued to be caught during 
July and August, one being obtained at the Fish Commission wharf on August 2. Probably not less 
than 100 specimens were taken during the season. Many were kept alive in aquaria for several weeks, 
and proved of great attraction to visitors. Some remained under or among the gulf- weed at t lie sur- 
face, some concealed themselves in alga' on the bottom, some hid behind stones and other objects in the 
aquarium, and some sought crevices in rocks. While clumsy in their movements, they were adept in 
approaching and capturing other lisbes. They werequite cannibalistic, one about G inches long swal- 
lowing another nearly 4 inches long, and they frequently bit off the fleshy dermal appendages of their 
fellows. In August several spawned in the aquarium. The eggs are connected in long bands like 
those of the goosefish {Lophius). On July 17, 1897, 8 specimens of this lish were taken in gulf-weed 
oft' Nantucket. It is reported that in the summer of 1881) the fish was not uncommon in that region. 

Coincident with this noteworthy appearance of Pterophrynt in the summer of 1897, the Portuguese 
man-of-war (Physalia) was more abundant in Vineyard Sound than during any time in the past 
twenty-five years; on several days in the latter part of August hundreds were in view at one time off 
Woods Hole. 



1 Recorded from Holmes Hole (Vineyard Haven) by Storer, History of Massachusetts Fishes, 1867. 



110 BULLETIN OF THE UNITED STATES FISH COMMISSION. 

II.— FISHES OF THE WOODS HOLE REGION NOT PREVIOUSLY REPORTED SO 

FAR NORTH OR SOUTH. 

The following species, represented in collections or authentically ascertained to 
inhabit the waters embraced within the limits of this paper, have not before been 
reported from the region in published ichthyological works. The limits of the pre- 
viously ascribed range of each are noted. 

Tarpon atlanticus (Cuvier & Valenciennes). Tarpon. Long Island to Brazil. 
Opisthonema oglinum (LeSueur). Thread Herring. Regularly northward to Florida and Caro- 
lina, straying occasionally to Virginia, New Jersey, and Rhode Island. 
Trachinocephalus myops (Forster). Ground Spearing. Tropical parts of western Atlantic; 

common in West Indies and Brazil, and ranging on the Atlantic coast to South Carolina. 
Lucania parva ( Baird & Girard). Rainwater-fish. Atlantic coast, from Connecticut to Key West. 
Athlermes hians (Cuvier & Valenciennes). West Indies, from Florida to Brazil. 
Gasterosteus gladiuuculus (Kendall). Oft" coast of Maine. 

Polydactylus octonemus (Girard). Eight-threaded Threadfish. New York to the Rio Grande. 
Oligoplites saurus (Bloeh & Schneider). Leather-jacket. Both coasts of America, north to New 

York and Lower California. 
Caranx bartholomaei Cuvier & Valenciennes. Yellow-jack. West Indies northward to Florida 

and North Carolina. 
Trachinotus goodei Jordan & Evermaun. Permit; Black-finned Pompano. West Indies north 

to southern Florida. 
Neomaenis griseus (Linnaeus). Gran Snapper. Atlantic coast from Xew Jersey to Brazil. 
Neomaenis jocu (Bloch & Schneider). Jhxj Snapper. West Indies, north to Florida Keys, south 

to Babia. 
Neomaenis apodus (Walbaum). Schoolmaster. West Indies, north to Key West, south to Bahia. 
Neomaenis aya (Bloch). Red Snapper. Long Island to Brazil. 

Neomaenis analis (Cuvier & Valenciennes). Mutton-fish. West Indies, Peusacola to Brazil. 
Larimus fasciatus Ilolbrook. Banded Drum. Coast of United States from Chesapeake Bay to 

Galveston, Tex. 
Sciaenops ocellatus (Linnaeus). Bed Drum: Channel Bass; Redfish. Coast of United States from 

New York to Texas. 
Pogonias cromis (Linnaeus). Drum. Atlantic Coast from Long Island to Kio Grande. 
Chaetodon ocellatus Bloch. Bardie. Havana; Gulf Stream; New Jersey and Khode Island. 
Chaetodon striatus Linnaeus. Portuguese Butterfly. West Indies. 
Canthidermis asperrimus (Cope). Sobaco. Darien, Isthmus of Panama. 
Spheroides spengleri ( Bloch). Southern Puffer; Swelltoad. West Indies; coast of Texas and of 

Florida south to Rio Janeiro and to the Madeiras and Canaries. 
Sebastes marinus (Linnaeus). Rosefish; Bed Perch; Bream; Norway Haddock. North Atlantic, 

south to Faroe Islands, Maine, and in deep water off coast of middle New Jersey. 

III.— FISHES OBTAINED AT WOODS HOLE NOT YET FOUND ELSEWHERE ON 
THE UNITED STATES COASTS. 

Stolephorus argyrophanus (Cuvier & Valenciennes). Anchovy. 
Centrolophus niger (Ginelin). Blackfish; Black Ruffe. 
Tetragonurus cuvieri Risso. Square-tail; Sea-raven. 
, Chaetodon striatus Linnaeus. Portuguese Butterfly. 
Chaetodon bricei H. M. Smith. Brice's Chcetodont. 
Canthidermis asperrimus (Cope). Sobaco. 



FISHES FOUND IN THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. Ill 

IV.— LIST OF FISHES RECORDED FROM ADJACENT LOCALITIES WHICH MAY 
BE LOOKED FOR AT WOODS HOLE. 

Besides stragglers from the high seas and the West Indies that may from time 
to time be detected at Woods Hole, a number of species have been obtained within 
comparatively short distances to the north or south of the region which are liable to 
be added to the local fauna. Narragansett Bay, for instance, distant only 35 miles, 
has yielded several species not yet observed at Woods Hole ; and there are also some 
more northern shore fishes regularly found as far south as Cape Cod which are to be 
looked for in Vineyard Sound. The following list, not by any means complete, is 
suggestive of the possible augmentation of the already rich fauna of Woods Hole. 

Scoliodon terree-novEe (Richardson). Sharp-nosed Shark. Cape Cod to Brazil, 

Lanma cornubica (Gmelin). Porbeagle; Mackerel Shark. Newfoundland to West Indies; com- 
mon on Massachusetts coast. 

Somniosus microcephalus (Bloch). North Atlantic, south to Cape Cud. 

Dasyatis hastata (DeKay). Sting Ray. West Indies, north to Rhode Island. 

Dorosoma cepedianuni (LeSueuri. Gizzard Shad; Mud shad. Cape Cod to Mexico. 

Cypsilurus gibbifrons (Cuvior & Valenciennes). Flying-fish. Atlantic Ocean; Newport, R. I. 

Chloroscombrus chrysurus (Linnans). Bumper. Cape Cod to Brazil. 

Spheroides testudineus (Linmnis). Globefish; Swellfieh. West Indies; in Gulf Stream as far 
north as Newport, R. I. 

Prionotus tribulus (Cuvier & Valenciennes). Sea-robin, Atlantic coast, north to Long Island.' 

V.— FRESH-WATER FISHES COLLECTED IX THE VICINITY OF WOODS HOLE. 

In the fresh-water ponds near Woods Hole, a number of fishes are found, some of 
which have been mentioned in the foregoing list, together with others that are strictly 
fresh-water species. Besides the white perch (Morone amerieana), spring minnow 
(Fundulus diaphanus), four-spined stickleback (Apeltes quadracus), and nine-spined 
stickleback (Pygostens punyitius) already given, the following have been noted, speci- 
mens being preserved in the local collection. Further collecting will doubtless disclose 
the presence of other species. 

Catostomus commersonii (Lacepede). Brook Sucker. 

Abramis crysoleucas (Mitchill). Golden shiner; Roach; Dace. 

Notropis cornutus (Mitchill). Shiner; Red-Jin. 

Hybopsis kentuckiensis (Katiuesque). River Chub; Horny-head. 

Lucius reticulatus (LeSueur). Pickerel. 

Perca flavescens (Mitchill). Yellow Perch. 

Ameiurus nebulosus (LeSueur). Homed rout; Bullhead. 

Boleosoma nigrum olmstedi (Storer). Darter. 

Eupomotis gibbosus (Linnaeus). Suiifish. 

Micropterus dolomieu Lacepede. Small-mouth Black Bass. (Introduced.) 

Micropterus salmoides (Lacepede). Large-mouth Black Bass. (Introduced.) 



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